Rai House: Redesigning a Row House for Modern Living

Reviving a 30-year-old residence with innovative design

The Rai House, designed by Lovekar Design Associates, is a stunning example of how a 30-year-old row house can be transformed into a modern and livable space. The project faced numerous challenges, including a narrow and linear layout, lack of natural light and ventilation, and an unsightly central duct area. However, the design team turned these limitations into opportunities to create a unique and functional living environment.

The narrow dimensions of the home, measuring 41'x 17', posed a significant challenge. To balance the space, the designers opted for a linear layout for the living and dining areas. Unnecessary walls were removed to open up the interiors and create a seamless connection with the landscaped open space. The central duct area, previously an eyesore, underwent a transformation to emerge as a compact double-height court, flooding the space with natural light.

The choice of materials played a crucial role in realizing the design vision. Wood, black basalt stone, granite, glass, veneer, stainless steel cables, Indian fabrics, and wood furniture were carefully selected to create a harmonious and warm atmosphere. The use of Indian and contemporary accessories added a touch of cultural richness to the space.

The interaction between different areas of the house is seamless and well-thought-out. The linear space on the ground level, consisting of the living, dining, and kitchen areas, is connected by the central court, which also serves as a bridge to the floor above. The first floor houses two cozy bedrooms connected by a bridge that overlooks the lively central court. A single flight staircase accommodates a powder room and provides storage space. A circular staircase leads to the terrace, which features a semi-covered party zone.

The redesign of the Rai House took place between January and August 2015 in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, India. The proximity to the Arabian Sea posed challenges such as water seepage, which required a permanent solution. The walls were waterproofed and clad in black granite with wooden strips, adding warmth and becoming a ledge wall for artifacts. Warm tropical colors were chosen to complement the art installations and create a bright and vibrant atmosphere.

The Rai House project was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2016 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding expertise and innovation demonstrated by the design. The Rai House stands as a testament to the transformative power of design and the ability to turn limitations into strengths.

Image Credit: Hemant Patil